Tributes are pouring in for the celebrated UK rap legend Sway, who has passed away at the age of 44. The musician, born Derek Andre Safo, was a transformative figure in the British music scene, perhaps best known to the wider public for his Top 10 hit ‘Level Up.’ His death was confirmed on September 17 by his close friend Kream via Instagram, sparking a wave of mourning across the industry.
Kream shared a heartfelt message reflecting on their friendship and Safo’s role as a father. “Devastated to hear of the sad news today, the passing of a personal friend, a true legend and pioneer in the Uk rap game, @swaydasafo,” he wrote. He noted that they had recently been supporting each other through health struggles, emphasizing Safo’s dedication to his four children—two sons and two daughters.
The MOBO Awards also issued a statement honoring the rapper’s historic contributions. In 2005, Sway made history as the first unsigned artist to win the MOBO for Best Hip-Hop Act, famously beating out international stars like 50 Cent and The Game. The organization hailed the win as a “huge moment for UK hip hop” and expressed their love for his family and fans.
Beyond his MOBO success, Safo’s 2006 debut album, This Is My Demo, earned a Mercury Prize nomination and solidified his status as a pioneer of the genre. While an official cause of death has not been released, it is known that the artist was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2010.
Fellow artists have been quick to share their memories. KSI expressed deep gratitude for Safo’s early mentorship, stating, “You believed in me when many didn’t. You gave me a chance when many didn’t.” Other prominent figures, including Giggs, have also paid their respects, simply hailing him as a “legend.”